Second Code Blue declared in Philadelphia due to frigid temperatures
Philadelphia (WTXF) - Philadelphia's Office of Homeless Services has declared the second Code Blue for the winter season.
The Code Blue will go into effect at 6:00 P.M. Wednesday for a full week until the following Wednesday, Dec. 21st at 6:00 A.M.
The announcement means dangerous cold temperatures and is an effort to prevent weather-related deaths among the homeless.
According to Homeless Services, a Code Blue is issued when the National Weather Service predicts wind chill temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below, or precipitation with temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
During a Code Blue, the city's homeless outreach teams will increase staffing and foot patrols throughout the city and provide homeless people access to shelter 24 hours a day.
Philadelphia Police are also authorized to transport homeless people to a shelter.
City officials encourage anyone who sees a person living on the street to call Homeless Outreach at 215-232-1984 and report the sighting. Homeless outreach teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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